J&K Govt clears decks for USD 100 million support by International Fund for Agricultural Development through implementation of JKCIP

JAMMU: Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, gave a green signal to pose “Competitiveness Improvement of Agriculture and Allied Sectors Project in Jammu and Kashmir (JKCIP) to the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA) for financing through International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) for project implementation in J&K.

The project shall contribute to the sustained increase in incomes of rural households by improving pre-production, production and post production verticals of agriculture. The project objective is to improve the competitiveness of the famers through a value chain approach with emphasis on export of high value agricultural commodities and development of business incubation centers and start-up support.

Effective investigation is no less than a weapon in hands of investigators to demolish terror eco-system: DGP

• Reviews functioning of SIUs in Kashmir

JAMMU:  Director General of Police, J&K Shri Dilbag Singh today chaired the meeting of State Investigation Unit (SIU) officers at PCR Kashmir to review the progress of under investigation UAPA cases besides took stock of cases under trial. Spl DG CID J&K Shri R.R Swain, ADGP Kashmir Shri Vijay Kumar, DIG SIU Shri Abdul Qayoom, SSP Srinagar Shri Rakesh Balwal, DD Prosecution besides all CIOs of SIUs of Kashmir Zone attended the meeting at PCR Kashmir while ADGP (Coordination) PHQ, Shri Danesh Rana, IGP (CIV), Shri B.S Tuti, AIG Training Shri J.S Johar and AIG (CIV) Dr. G.V Sandeep Chakravarthy attended the meeting through Video conferencing.

Integration of services with Digi Locker & Umang App ‘Digital J&K’ to usher in a golden chapter in the UT: CS

JAMMU: Chief Secretary Dr Arun Kumar Mehta today remarked that the progress achieved towards the goal of ‘Digital J&K’ in recent times is one of the brightest chapters that would go down as the most transformative part in the history of the UT. He made these remarks while launching the integration of services of Municipalities with Umang and artisan related services on Digi Locker applications. On the occasion Commissioner Secretary, Information Technology; MD & CEO, J&K Bank; SIO, NIC; representative from H&UDD and other concerned officers were present either physically or virtually.

Dr Mehta observed that the government has launched digital services for ease of living of the public and to bring transparency in delivery of services to the citizens. He said that the IT enabled governance has reduced the gap between intent and delivery. He maintained that the transition to Digital J&K has empowered people like never before as it has brought government to the doorsteps of people. He pointed out that the digitization of services not only ensures promptness in delivery of services but equally aids in maintaining highest degree of transparency and accountability.

Jio True 5G Services: LG congratulates the citizens of J&K on the launch of 5G services

• 5G services will play an active role in socio-economic development, enable integrated action for prosperity and bring transformational benefits to the people: LG
• 5G technology for the common man will realize the Hon’ble PM’s vision of Digital India and give a boost to growth opportunities in tourism, e-governance, agriculture, education, healthcare, information technology and small & micro enterprises: LG
• The latest 5G technology and enhanced connectivity will bridge the rural urban divide, improve productivity, generate more employment and it will ensure growth of grassroot enterprises, SHGs and knowledge connectivity for rural schools: LG
• Jio has made the investment of Rs.6529 Cr in the UT to give a fillip to the vision of Digital J&K and has created 36,000 direct & indirect employments
• More than Rs 1230 Cr investment is in progress and by end of December 2023 it will connect every block & tehsil of J&K

JAMMU: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha launched Jio True 5G Services for Jammu & Kashmir today. Congratulating the citizens of the J&K UT, the Lt Governor said the 5G services will play an active role in socio-economic development, enable integrated action for prosperity and bring transformational benefits to the people. “The 5G technology for the common man will realize the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of Digital India and give a boost to growth opportunities in tourism, e-governance, agriculture, education, healthcare, information technology and small & micro enterprises,” said the Lt Governor.

J&K Sports Council to conduct Asia's longest Ultra Cycle Race from Srinagar to Kanyakumari

• Project Director, Jeetendra Nayak says participants to peddle 3651kms first time in cycle race
  

SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council today held a press briefing regarding first Asia's longest Ultra-Cycling Race which will be flagged-off on 1st March, 2023. The press conference held by J&K Sports Council was presided over by Project Director, Jeetendra Nayak; Joint Secretary Sports Council, Bashir Ahmad Bhat and officers of the Sports Council.

Addressing the media, Nayak said that till date only 1000km races were held in India and added that this longest race will give an opportunity to all the ultra-cyclists in India to participate in this ultra cycling event of international standards. He informed that the Cycle race is recognized by World Ultra Cycling Association, USA and declared as the Asian Ultra Cycling Championship & World Ultra Cycling Championship.

LG’s Mulaqaat: Lt Governor interacts with citizens who had filed their complaints on JKIGRAMS; several cases disposed on the spot

• Directs the officials to safeguard the interests of the common citizens & ensure that the grievances are attended promptly
• JKIGRAMS complaint mechanism is serving a range of objectives including feedback on the quality of services and strengthening transparency, integrity and accountability in the system to respond to people's needs, says Lt Governor

JAMMU: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha today interacted with citizens, who had filed their complaints on JKIGRAMS, during the "LG’s Mulaqaat- Live Public Grievance Hearing" at the Civil Secretariat. During the public hearing, several cases were disposed of on the spot for which the applicants expressed their gratitude to the Lt Governor. The Lt Governor directed the officials to safeguard the interests of the common citizens and ensure that the grievances are attended promptly.

“JKIGRAMS complaint mechanism is serving a range of objectives including feedback on the quality of services and strengthening transparency, integrity and accountability in the system to respond to people's needs,” observed the Lt Governor. On one grievance filed by Sh Sanjay Sharma from Akhnoor regarding non-functioning of tube well in his area, the Deputy Commissioner Jammu informed the chair that it would be replaced with a new one within 3 days.

2 terrorists neutralized in Awantipora, terrorists involved in killing of Sanjay Sharma, neutralized within 48 hours

SRINAGAR: In a bravely executed operation, based upon specific input, joint forces of Army, J&K Police and CRPF launched a cordon in Padgampora village of Awantipora. During the search, terrorists hiding inside a mosque opened indiscriminate fire upon search parties and in this initial exchange of fire, two jawans of Army sustained grievous injuries while neutralizing one terrorist on spot. One of the jawans later on attained martyrdom.

Extreme caution and limited firepower was used in view of the sacred precincts. Civilians praying inside were also evacuated on time preventing any collateral damage. Resuming the search for the second terrorist who had holed up inside a bathroom of an adjacent building, again caution was exercised and 14 civilians were rescued from the place before he was neutralized.

NIT Srinagar celebrates National Science Day- Apart from curriculum, we have to equip students with latest technologies: Prof. HC Verma

SRINAGAR: National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar on Tuesday celebrated the National Science Day 2023 to commemorate the discovery of ‘Raman Effect’ by Sir C.V. Raman in 1928. The event was organized by the PG Department of Physics in collaboration with Indian National Young Academy of Sciences (INYAS). The daylong event was attended by 500 participants and Padma Shri awardee, Professor H. C. Verma was Chief Guest of the daylong event. .While Director NIT Srinagar Prof. (Dr.) Rakesh Sehgal, Institute's Registrar Prof. Syed Kaiser Bukhari, Dr. Anju Sehgal, ex. Principal GDC Hamirpur and Head Physics Dr. MA Shah were 'Guest of Honor' on the occasion.

In his presidential address, Prof H.C. Verma (Padma Shri) awardee said that apart from curriculum, we have to equip our students with the latest technologies and techniques. "Teaching science therefore requires a different approach. We have to provide opportunities to our students to learn the various methods and processes. Educational institutes that combine classroom or textbook teaching with science laboratory experiments are able to derive the best results for their students," he said.

Chief Justice inaugurates customized training for officers of Labour Department

JAMMU: Jammu and Kashmir Judicial Academy organized a three day customized training programme for officers of Labour Department, which commenced here today. The program aims to further enhance efficiency, knowledge and skills of officers in discharging the quasi-judicial functions while presiding over the courts under various legislations concerning labour laws.

The training programme was inaugurated by Chief Justice, High Court of J&K and Ladakh and Patron-in-Chief of J&K Judicial Academy, Justice N. Kotiswar Singh, in presence of Justice Sindhu Sharma, Chairperson, J&K Judicial Academy, Justice Rahul Bharti, Judge, High Court of J&K and Ladakh and Justice Bansi Lal Bhat, Former Judge, High Court of J&K and Ladakh.

Srinagar to get Japanese Cherry Blossom Theme Garden

• Floriculture Department discusses modalities with SAKURA
  

SRINAGAR: The summer capital 'Srinagar' would soon have a splendid Cherry Theme Garden on the pattern of Japanese Sakura with all the modalities being finalised in this regard. This was revealed during a virtual meeting of officers of Floriculture Department with the Japanese authorities and Union Ministry of External Affairs. Professor A K Chawla Advisor (Japan) East Asia Division MEA mediated the meeting.

The meeting had elaborate deliberation on various issues regarding the project like procurement of planting material from Japan and technical guidance. "Cherry Theme Garden' is a Rs 10 crore project, an extension plan for Tulip Garden, Srinagar to make it more attractive and magnificent for the visitors. The project is being facilitated by the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India.

Pandit’s killing avenged- JKP makes terrorist meet his fate: Raman Suri

JAMMU: Lauding Jammu and Kashmir Police (JKP) for avenging the killing of Kashmiri pandit in Awantipora, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) J&K Executive Member Raman Suri said that this is the shelf-life of terrorists who are already on the run and are trying to scare people with their cowardice acts of selective killings. The alert cops of JKP, he said, had cordoned off the area and were able to eliminate terrorists responsible for killing of Sanjay Sharma.

Building Committee meeting held at CUJ, 100 bedded girls hostel coming up soon

JAMMU: The 25th University Works Building Committee of Central University Jammu (CUJ) was held here today. The meeting was presided over by Prof. Sanjeev Jain, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, CUJ. Prof. Jain welcomed the members and apprised them of various infrastructure projects under progress for enhancing the Academic & Hostel facilities for students.

SOG an elite wing of JKP, need to completely wipe out terror eco-system from J&K: DGP

• DGP chairs meeting to review working of SOGs

JAMMU: To review the overall working of Special Operation Groups across the Kashmir Zone, Director General of Police J&K, Shri Dilbag Singh, IPS today chaired a meeting of all DySsP Police Components at Police Control Room Kashmir which was also attended by ADGP Kashmir Zone, Shri Vijay Kumar and SP Cargo Srinagar Shri Iftikhar Talib while ADGP Coordination PHQ, Shri Danesh Rana, IGP Headquarters PHQ Shri B S Tuti, AIsG Shri J S Johar, Shri Gurinderpal Singh and Shri Virinder Singh Manhas attended the meeting from Police Headquarters Jammu through Video Conferencing. 

Addressing the meeting, DGP said that Jammu and Kashmir Police over the years has been doing commendable job on the anti-terror front because of which the force has become a brand across the country which is further validated by the awards JKP has received over the years. He said that in view of new and upcoming challenges, we need to further enhance the effectiveness of these units for which he directed the component heads to submit their suggestions and identify the areas which they feel could be further improved.

Advisor Bhatnagar addresses CII’s annual session 2022-23 ‘ J&K @ 75 to 100: ‘Future Ready J&K’ at Jammu

JAMMU: Advisor to Lieutenant Governor, Rajeev Rai Bhatnagar, today addressed the annual session 2022-23 ‘J&K @ 75 to 100: Future Ready J&K’ of Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) here. Addressing a mammoth gathering of industrialists and business professionals, Advisor Bhatnagar highlighted that Jammu and Kashmir has vast potential in terms of industrial development and the region is providing sunrise opportunities for the industrialists to establish their ventures here. He added that the government is providing attractive incentives under the industrial investment package for any aspiring industrialist or entrepreneur willing to establish their business units in the region.

JK Govt takes major step in promoting millets for sustainable, healthy future: Approves Rs 15 cr project to prop up Nutri Cereals

JAMMU: The Jammu and Kashmir government has approved an ambitious Rs 15 crore project to prop up nutri cereals besides promoting and enhancing millet production and consumption in the Union Territory. The project, planned to be implemented over a period of three years, aims to promote cultivation of millets, increase their value addition and generate entrepreneurship opportunities for farmers. The initiative also seeks to generate awareness regarding the nutritional value of millets, which are rich in proteins, micronutrients, and phytochemicals.

Millets are known as the "miracle grains" or "crops of the future" due to their resilience to climate change. They can grow in drought prone areas and do not require large amounts of water or external inputs, making them an ideal crop for small scale farmers in Jammu and Kashmir. It is also a dual purpose crop, providing both food and fodder besides contributing to the economic efficiency of farming.

Lt Governor inaugurates power infrastructure projects worth Rs.192 crores

• KPDCL & JPDCL ink MoUs worth Rs 1814 Cr & Rs 2174 Cr, respectively, under RDSS to strengthen distribution infrastructure & improve electricity supply to urban & rural areas
• Projects undertaken for creation of new receiving stations and augmentation of existing stations will ensure quality and reliable power supply to people: LG
• We have achieved huge capacity addition under ongoing CSS/PMDP projects. Out of 195 projects, 135 have been completed: LG
• In Kashmir valley, additional capacities were created during the winter to enable peak demand and 10% more power was supplied as compared to last year. For the first time, in a single year out of total 30 grid stations, 11 stations have been augmented: LG
• Power supply position in Jammu region has improved after addition of new system capacities. These initiatives exemplify our commitment for inclusive development & to fulfil the needs of the common man: LG 
• Property Tax in J&K is one-tenth of the tax amount being paid elsewhere in the country. 40% of population won’t have to pay any property tax, says the LG 

SRINAGAR: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha today inaugurated power infrastructure projects worth Rs.192 crores. The 25 projects inaugurated included 22 receiving stations costing Rs 50 cr; Smart Metering project costing Rs 62.88 cr & Smart Metering App - Smart Bill Sahuliyat, and Supervisory Control & Data Acquisition system at a cost of Rs 79.27 cr.

In presence of the Lt Governor, KPDCL and JPDCL signed MoUs worth Rs 1814 Cr & Rs 2174 Cr, respectively, with PESL (PGCIL), RECPDCL & NTPC for implementation of Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS). It will strengthen distribution infrastructure and improve electricity supply to urban & rural areas.

Progressing JK: J&K likely to record capacity addition of 3400 MW in Hydro Power sector

• Saddal village gets electricity after 75 years of independence

JAMMU: After a long gap of 75 years of independence, the residents of Saddal village in Udhampur have been able to get rid of darkness from their lives with electrification of their area under the prestigious Central Government’s ‘Untied Grants Scheme’. The natives of this village are now hopeful for a better future for their children as earlier, the only source of light during the evening hours in the village was candles and oil lamps, which gradually became a part of their day-to-day life.

Similarly, Ganouri-Tanta village in the mountainous Doda district saw the light of an electric bulb for the first time, ending the decades of darkness from the lives of the villagers. The administration took up electrification work in the village on the directions of Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, after a group of locals put forward the demand before him at the LG Mulaqaat programme.

J&K possesses vast potential for entrepreneurship, innovation, incubation and startups: Advisor Bhatnagar

• Addresses Capacity Building Program on Small Business Development for Aspiring and Existing Entrepreneurs at Jammu

JAMMU: Advisor to Lieutenant Governor, Rajeev Rai Bhatnagar today remarked that Jammu and Kashmir has vast potential for entrepreneurship, innovation, incubation and startup’s and a lot of growth and development is happening across the region from the last three years. The Advisor made these remarks while addressing the five day Capacity Building Program on Small Business Development for Aspiring and Existing Entrepreneurs.

The program was organised by Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Jammu in collaboration with Skill India and Union Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship at KC, City Centre here. ddressing the large gathering of aspiring entrepreneurs, Advisor Bhatnagar said that the present period is ‘Sunrise Period ‘for entire Jammu and Kashmir as the UT is witnessing tremendous growth and development from the last three, four years owing to constructive and reformative policy making. He added that our country is emerging as ‘Land of Opportunities ' and the growth story of India has no parallel across the world.

PM releases 13th Installment under Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme

JAMMU: Department of Agriculture Production and Farmers Welfare, Jammu, organized a live streaming programme regarding release of 13th installment of PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme by Prime Minister, Narendra Modi. Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary, Agriculture Production Department, presided over the function organized at Baba Jitto, Kissan Kendra, Talab Tillo, here. Bharat Bhushan, Chairman, District Development Council graced the occasion as guest of honour.

Special Secretary Agriculture Production Department, T.K.Bhat, Director Agriculture,  Jammu,  K  K Sharma; Director Animal Husbandry, Shubra Sharma, Director Sheep Husbandry, Krishan Lal, Joint Directors of Extension, Marketing,  Apiculture and Mushroom  and senior officers besides more than 200  farmers of Jammu division participated in the programme.

JKBOSE Chairman and SCERT Director, Prof Manhas takes stock of Grade-8 Exam

• “Provisions of cleanliness, conducive atmosphere should be met at all costs.”

SRINAGAR: The recently appointed Director of the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT), J&K, Prof (Dr) Parikshat Manhas, Monday, visited various Class-8 examination centres and took stock of the arrangements put in place by the authorities. Prof. Manhas, who was appointed last month as the Chairman of the Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (BOSE), has also been given the additional responsibility of Director of the SCERT.Upon his arrival to the valley this morning, he hurried to the examination centres to assess the preparations made by the authorities.

MoT with ABTA organizes 1st Snow Marathon in Bhaderwah

JAMMU: The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India (North) in association with Real Sports India along with local administration, Amazing Bhaderwah Tourism Association (ABTA) organised the maiden 1st Snow Marathon in Bhaderwah, Jammu on 26 February 2023. This 1st Jammu Snow Run Safari was flag off by Sh. Vishesh Mahajan, Deputy Commissioner/DM, DODA. During the flag off, he extended his hearty congratulations to all the participants.

During his interactive session with the participants as well as the organiser of the event, he appeal that such adventure spot activity should be encouraged and given top priority amongst sports enthusiasts and should embrace activities like Snow Run Safari as a part of their life style as Guldanda (Bhaderwah) has a lot of potential for adventure activities in view of tourism promotion purposes. There were other dignitaries from various departments like CO-Rastriya Rifles, SSP- DODA, Joint Secretary - Sikkim Tourism, representative from J&K Tourism & Ministry of Tourism Govt. Of India (North), CO- Bhaderwah Development Authority, witness and celebrate this Mega event.

CS assesses traffic scenario on Sgr-Jmu National Highway

• Asks for strict traffic regulations & timely completion of works in progress

SRINAGAR: Chief Secretary, Dr Arun Kumar Mehta today held a virtual meeting to take stock of the traffic movement on NH-44 (Srinagar-Jammu National Highway) here. The meeting was attended by the Additional Chief Secretary, Home; IG Traffic; Deputy Commissioner, Ramban; SSP, Traffic, NH; SP Ramban and the representatives from NHAI.

The Chief Secretary took stock of the pace of restoration of double lanning of the damaged portions of the road near Cafeteria Morh and Mehar. He directed the  Traffic Department augment to augment their personnel on the portions of the highway damaged by the adverse weather recently. He reiterated that the travel time taken by LMVs should be restricted around 6-7 hours to reach from one city to another.

JKTPO participated in Maharashtra International Trade Exhibition

• J&K Pavilion-major attraction of MITEX 2023

JAMMU: Jammu and Kashmir Trade Promotion Organization (JKTPO) under the aegis of Department of Industries and Commerce participated in Maharashtra International Trade Expo (MITEX) organized by Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture (MACCIA) at Mumbai.

JKTPO on the directions of Principal Secretary, Industries and Commerce, Prashant Goyal and under overall supervision of Managing Director JKTPO , Khalid Jahangir, set up a pavilion in  MITEX with more than 30 exhibitors from diverse sectors from UT of Jammu and Kashmir which was among major attractions of the event . The pavilion attracted huge footfall   of visitors especially during weekends.

J&K DCC Banks: 54 branches running in profit after a gap of 33 years

• Asks officers to hold camps at division level for NPA recovery from PACSs

JAMMU:  Commissioner Secretary Cooperative, Yasha Mudgal, today chaired a meeting to review financial status of branches of District Central Cooperative (DCC) Banks of Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting was attended by Registrar Cooperative Societies, Director Finance Cooperative Department, Additional Registrar Cooperative Societies Jammu/Kashmir, Additional Secretary Cooperative Department, MD and CEO District Central Cooperative Banks (DCCBs), Branch Heads and other concerned officials both in person and through video conferencing.

J&K Government dismisses 3 employees for anti-national activities

JAMMU: The Jammu and Kashmir Government on Sunday dismissed three employees under Article 311 of the Constitution of India for their involvement in anti-national activities. Article 311 of the Constitution of India provides for dismissal of a person employed in civil capacities under Union or a State. The activities of these employees had come to the adverse notice of law enforcement and intelligence agencies, as they found them involved in activities prejudicial to the interests of the State, such as involvement in terror related activities and drug trafficking.

Manzoor Ahmad Itoo, Junior Engineer (Public Works Department) in PMGSY, Bandipore, Syed Saleem Andrabi, Orderly in Social Welfare Department, Tehsil Handwara, District Kupwara and Mohd. Aurif Sheikh, Teacher in Government Middle School, Pagihalla, Mahore, Reasi are the employees against whom action has been taken.

J&K first to complete 75 Amrit Sarovars in each District; stands 2nd in the country

• CS for developing an Amrit Sarovar in each panchayat

JAMMU: Chief Secretary, DrArun Kumar Mehta today reiterated here that J&K is well on the path of developing an AmritSarovar in each Panchayat. He made out that these Water bodies are going to be the hub of activities in these panchayats besides being a vital asset to protect the fragile environment here. He maintained that ‘Jan Bhagidari’ should be made the hallmark of this Mission with people’s participation at all levels. He also maintained that the works should be carried out with cooperation of general public. He asked them to involve fully the PRIs and locals in this development activity in consonance with the major aims of this flagship scheme.

Dr Mehta emphasised on participation of freedom fighters, Padma Awardees etc in the initiation and inauguration of these public projects. He observed that activities like flag hoisting on important dates like 26th January and 15th August and other social, educational, recreational and environmental activities would be carried out round the year on these water bodies. He urged them to take benefit of all the Central flagship schemes like MGNREGA, PMKVY, XV Finance Commission Grants or similar schemes from the State/ Central government either individually or in combination for this purpose.

National TB Elimination Programme: Srinagar District hits top position at National level for outstanding performance in TPT for at risk individuals

• District secures Ist position among competing Districts from Rajasthan, Bihar, Uttarakhand, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, UP, Haryana, New Delhi & Ladakh by administering preventive drugs to notified TB cases

SRINAGAR: Marking a significant accomplishment the District Srinagar has bagged top position under Programmatic Management of Tuberculosis Preventive Treatment in India(PMTPT) program for outstanding success with the highest Tuberculosis Preventive Treatment(TPT) completion at the National level. The District Srinagar was conferred award during All India Quarterly review meeting for Joint Efforts for Elimination of Tuberculosis for PMTPT implementation held at New Delhi from 7-9 February 2023.

Yousmarg set to emerge as round the year tourism attraction & credible winter sports avenue

• Spectacular 'Yoga in Snow' festival held on the concluding day of 'month long Ski course' at Yousmarg

BUDGAM: The month- long 'Snow Ski' Training programme concluded today at famous tourist destination Yousmarg. Speaking as a chief guest, the Deputy Commissioner Budgam, S F Hamid said that the District Administration will continue to hold such events at both Yousmarg and Doodhpathri destinations to tap the tremendous tourism potential of these places and simultaneously provide ample opportunities to the youth to participate in adventure sports activities.

He said that the event witnessed good participation of youth including girl participants across the Valley, who got a platform to showcase their talent and hone their skills in adventure sports. The DC said that such events also create opportunities for locals to earn their livelihood, with their active participation in tourism related service providing.

Lt Governor chairs high level meeting to review Road Safety in J&K UT

• Concerned departments to conduct causative analysis of road accidents for multi-pronged road safety strategy
• All stakeholders to work towards the common goal of road safety & reducing road fatalities: LG to officers

JAMMU: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha today chaired a high-level meeting to review the Road Safety measures in J&K, at the Civil Secretariat. The meeting was attended by Sh Rajeev Rai Bhatnagar, Advisor to Lt Governor; Dr Arun Kumar Mehta, Chief Secretary; Sh RK Goyal, Additional Chief Secretary, Home Department; Sh Dilbag Singh, DGP; Sh H. Rajesh Prasad, Principal Secretary, H&UDD; Sh Shailendra Kumar, Principal Secretary, Public Works (R&B) Department; Divisional Commissioners, Deputy Commissioners, besides senior officers from Traffic Police and UT administration in person and through virtual mode.

During the meeting, the Lt Governor took an appraisal of the implementation of directions issued with regard to improving the Road Safety in the UT and steps taken since the previous meeting. Sh G. Prasanna Ramaswamy, Administrative Secretary, Transport Department presented the detailed Action-taken report on the status of major infrastructure projects (IDTR Kot Bhalwal & ICC, Samba); enforcement activities by Traffic & Motor Vehicle Department; working of District Road Safety Councils, action taken by road owning agencies for improving the safety of the roads, Installation of CCTVs along roads by NHAI and Police; status of Intelligent Traffic Management System in JMC and SMC, streamlining of Integrated Road Accident Database (IRDA).

IIM Jammu organises free eye, dental check-up camp in collaboration with SOS Children’s Village Orphanage, GMCH Jammu, IGGDC

JAMMU: IIM Jammu, as an initiative to provide quality and overall healthcare to underprivileged children, organized a free eye and dental check-up camp at its Canal Road Transit Campus, under the leadership of Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director . The initiative was organized in partnership with SOS Children's Village Jammu Orphanage, Government Medical College Jammu, and Indira Gandhi Government Dental College Jammu. The entire event was overseen and coordinated by Empyrean, Student Committee under the guidance of Student Affairs of IIM Jammu.

Empyrean is the annual management and cultural fest of IIM Jammu. Spanning over three days, this extravaganza will be held in March at IIM Jammu and offer a plethora of events, ranging from dance competitions to singing contests to a fashion show and a battle of the bands. Ninety-five orphanage children participated in this social initiative. Coming from socially and economically weaker backgrounds, the students at the institute ensured that the children were taken care of during their time at the campus. The faculty, students, and staff also contributed to the noble cause by donating, helping to manage the event, and spending quality time with the kids.

Over 40,000 youth participates in LG Rolling Trophy this year: Dr Shahid Iqbal

ANANTNAG : Secretary, Tribal Affairs and Chief Executive Officer, Mission Youth, Dr Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, today inaugurated semi final of inter district LG Rolling trophy here at Boys Higher Secondary School Bijbehara in presence of Deputy Commissioner Anantnag, Dr Basharat Qayoom.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Shahid Iqbal said that Mission Youth is a unique initiative of UT government and the LG Rolling trophy is aimed at encouraging youth to participate in sports activities while ensuring all necessary facilities like enhanced infrastructure, uniforms, sports equipment and related utilities. He said that the initiative envisages to provide a platform to the youth to showcase their talent on the sports field thus channelizing their energy towards productive ventures.

Property Tax: Div Com Kashmir, Commissioner SMC hold meeting with Trade federations & various civil society bodies

SRINAGAR: The Divisional Commissioner (Div Com) Kashmir, Vijay Kumar Bidhuri and Commissioner SMC, Athar Aamir Khan along with senior officials from Srinagar Municipal Corporation today held a detailed meeting and discussion with the representatives of various trade federations to discuss the proposed property tax within Srinagar Municipal limits. The meeting was attended by Kashmir Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Kashmir Hoteliers Association, PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industries, KCIF, KTMF, CCIK, Kashmir Economic Alliance and many other trade federations and civil society bodies.

During the meeting, Div Com and Commissioner SMC gave a detailed presentation to all stakeholders about the property tax. The process and method of property tax calculation was discussed with the members present. It was impressed that the property tax adopted by J&K is a progressive model. The tax to be collected will go into the account of the local bodies only and will be used for the development of the respective city only. The Tax rates are among the lowest in the country, they informed.

NHM releases ranking of Public Health facilities on JK e-Sahaj for January

JAMMU: National Health Mission J&K today released ranking of Public Health facilities on Hospital Management Information System (JK e Sahaj) for the month of January 2023. In first phase of implementation, about 578 facilities have been covered under this initiative and will be further extended to other facilities in a phased manner.

In the category of Associated Hospitals of Government Medical College, the first rank has been clinched by Psychiatric Disease Hospital, Jammu, followed by Chest Disease Hospital Jammu, AH GMC Rajouri, Super Speciality Hospital Srinagar and  Government Dental College Jammu. The bottom five in this category included Kashmir Nursing Home, Srinagar, AH GMC Doda, SMHS GMC Srinagar, Government Medical College, Jammu and Children Hospital Bemina, Srinagar.

Atal Dulloo inaugurates Farmers’ Field Functionaries Training Centre at Maralian

JAMMU: Additional Chief Secretary (ACS), Agriculture Production Department, Atal Dulloo, today inaugurated first of its kind Farmers’ Field Functionaries Training Centre and Strawberry Show at Government Grape Farm Maralian, R.S Pura.

Director Horticulture Jammu, Ram Sevak, Director Agriculture Jammu, K K Sharma, Secretary, J&K Kissan Advisory Board, Abdul Hamid Wani, Joint Director Horticulture, C.L Sharma, Chief Horticulture Officers of Jammu, Samba and Kathua,  CCI Jammu, prominent members of Kissan Advisory Board, PRI members, Strawberry growers besides other officers and officials of the department were present on the occasion.

GDC Neeli Nallah organises Poster Making Competition on “Clean Water and Sanitation” under mission G20 awareness

UDHAMPUR: Government Degree College Neeli Nallah, Udhampur today organised Poster Making Competition on “Clean Water and Sanitation" under the aegis of One Earth, One Planet and One Future Under the mission G20 awareness. The competition was organised under the able guidance of Prof. Hans Raj, Principal of the college. A total of ten students participated in poster making competition and depicted their ideas about the causes of water pollution, ways of water harvesting and water management as a goal of sustainable development.

Roopali Rajput, Shruti Dogra and Sahil Sharma were judged 1st, 2nd and 3rd respectively. The competition was judged by Manisha Kanchru, Dr. Parul Chibber and  Pratibha Heer. Speaking on the occasion, the Principal of the college emphasized on the importance of Clean water and sanitation. He said a safely managed sanitation facility is one where excreta is safely disposed of in situ or treated off-site.

DPIIT imparts training to officers for the adoption of PMG portal in the UT

• Project monitoring & supervision to get strengthened: Secretary Planning

JAMMU/SRINAGAR: Team of Department for Promotion of Industry & Internal Trade (DPIIT), GoI today imparted online training to the Nodal officers of all districts & departments of J&K for enabling the UT to monitor its Projects through the Project Monitoring Group (PMG) Portal. Secretary, Planning Development & Monitoring Department, Dr. Raghav Langer chaired the meeting aimed at strengthening of Project monitoring mechanism for UT sector projects.

Pertinent to mention that the Government has already constituted UT level Project Monitoring Committee under the chairmanship of Chief Secretary for accelerating the pace of execution of key Infrastructure Projects in the UT, with an anticipated investment of Rs. 10 cr or more. UT PMG team has been mandated to help to expedite issues, resolution, regulatory bottlenecks & fast tracking of approvals/clearance of UT projects under various sectors.

J&K Bank wins top award at MSME Banking Excellence Awards 2022

• Efforts on ground continue to be recognized and rewarded at prestigious platforms in the country: Baldev Prakash

SRINAGAR: J&K Bank has emerged winner as Best MSME Bank, MSME Friendly Bank, Govt Schemes Implementing Bank, Best Branding Bank and Best Bank for Implementing COVID Schemes at a function of MSME Banking Excellence Awards – 2022 that was organized by Delhi-based Chamber of Indian Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (CIMSME).

Accompanied by General Manager (Credit) Ashutosh Sareen and Zonal Head (Delhi) Rakesh Magotra, Bank’s MD & CEO Baldev Prakash received the prestigious award at the hands of Chief Guest and Union Minister for Jal Shakti Gajendra Singh Shekhawat under ‘Private Bank’ category at a high profile event held on Thursday evening in New Delhi. Additional Secretary and Development Commissioner Union Ministry of MSME, Dr Rajneesh and President (CIMSME) Mukesh Mohan Gupta were also present on the occasion.

Property Tax a progressive reform, lowest in the country, will improve infrastructure, services: DC Jammu

• Chairs a meeting with all stakeholders to address their queries regarding property tax

JAMMU: Deputy Commissioner Jammu chaired a meeting with all stakeholders including the Presidents, Vice Presidents & Executive Officers of all seven Municipal Committees and their market associations to create awareness and answer queries regarding implementation of Property Tax in JK UT. Among others, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Assistant Commissioner General besides other concerned officials were present in the meeting.

The meeting was convened to curb the misinformation being spread regarding property tax in which the Deputy Commissioner gave them a detailed powerpoint presentation about the truth and facts about the property tax. The Deputy Commissioner said that J&K is the last UT to implement the reform with minimum financial implications on the common masses. She informed that residential houses/apartments with built up area upto 1000 sqft, religious institutions and agricultural land have been exempted from paying any property tax

Make all arrangements for Amarnathji yatra before mid June: CS

• Avoid all disaster prone areas for establishing any utility

JAMMU: In its 12th High Level Committee (HLC) meeting of Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB) attended by the senior officers in Civil and Security establishment Chief Secretary, Dr Arun Kumar Mehta today impressed upon all the line departments including the Shrine Board to prepare well ahead of commencement of yatra for its successful conduct this year. Dr Mehta urged all the departments including PDD, Jal Shakti, RDD, H&UDD, BRO, Telecommunication and others to complete the necessary tendering and other contract related processes in the month of April itself. He directed the BRO to clear the snow from roads on both the axis of Chandanwadi and Baltal before end of April so that other departments are able to carryout their activities smoothly.

India Today Tourism Survey and Awards: After a pat at SATTE, J&K Tourism wins best adventure tourism destination award

SRINAGAR: The India Today Tourism Survey has chosen J&K Tourism for best adventure tourism destination award. The awards were given away at New Delhi by Union Minister of State for Culture & Parliamentary Affairs, Arjun Ram Meghwal yesterday at a glittering function after the results of the survey were announced. 

The award has been given to the Tourism Department in recognition of its sustained efforts in promoting Gulmarg as an adventure destination of international order. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Meghwal highlighted the value of tourism in contributing to the GDP of the country. He said Tourism can increase all the three components of the GDP—consumption through domestic travel, investment through the booming private sector and exports through the sale of locally made handicrafts and products to foreign tourists.